We need to talk about the elephant in the room. Digital Nomads are not always popular. In Lisbon, locals protest against rising rents. In Mexico City, signs say “Gringo Go Home.” In Bali, tourists are deported for disrespecting temples.
We are guests. And frankly, we haven’t always been good ones. Here is how to travel the world without destroying the places we love.
1. The Rent Issue
When we pay $1,500 for an apartment that used to cost $500, we displace local families.
- The Fix: Try to rent outside the “expat bubble.” Use local rental sites instead of just Airbnb. Negotiate fair prices, but don’t lowball.
2. The “Laptop Squatter”
Sitting in a small family-run cafe for 6 hours, buying one $2 coffee, and using their wifi is rude.
- The Fix: Follow the “Rent Rule.” Buy something every hour you are there. If you need to work all day, go to a coworking space.
3. Learn the Language (Just a Little)
You don’t need to be fluent. But walking into a shop and assuming everyone speaks English is arrogance.
- The Fix: Learn 5 phrases: Hello, Please, Thank You, Sorry, How much? It changes the entire dynamic of the interaction.
4. Dress the Part
Wearing a bikini to the supermarket in Bali isn’t “freedom,” it’s disrespectful.
- The Fix: Look around. What are the locals wearing? Match their level of modesty.
5. Support the Real Economy
Spending all your money at “Avocado Toast” cafes owned by other foreigners doesn’t help the local economy.
- The Fix: Eat street food. Buy fruit from the market ladies. Take local buses. Put your money directly into the hands of the people who live there.
Conclusion
Travel is a privilege. We have the passport power and the currency power to go anywhere. With that power comes the responsibility to be kind, respectful, and aware. Leave the place better than you found it.
